How I Use the Reflect Tool on Teams for Student Check-Ins and Movement Breaks
Sometimes I struggle to bring wellbeing into my maths & science classes & I have found the Reflect tool on Teams to be really helpful in doing so!!
Where do you find it?
It’s super easy. In your Class Team, click the “+” tab at the top and add Reflect. Once it’s there, you’ve got a dedicated space for emotional check-ins—no extra apps, no fuss.
How do I use it?
I post quick prompts like “How are you feeling about today’s topic?” or “How energised are you right now?”. Students respond using emojis and words, which feels low-pressure and fun. If I notice a lot of “tired” or “stressed” responses, that’s my cue to pause for a movement break—a quick stretch, a breathing exercise, or even a short walk if possible. Reflect even provides you with material for a movement break under the “brain break” tab!
Why bother?
Because it works. Reflect gives students a safe way to share how they’re doing without putting them on the spot. It helps me spot patterns—like pre-exam anxiety or midweek fatigue—so I can support them before it becomes a bigger issue. And those movement breaks? They reset the energy in the room and boost focus. Honestly, it’s one of the simplest ways to make lessons more human.
If you haven’t tried Reflect yet, give it a go. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in student wellbeing—and in your classroom vibe.
